‘Fear factor’… Paul Lambert names who is favourites between Celtic and Rangers

Celtic take on Heart of Midlothian this weekend as Brendan Rodgers’ men look to take one step closer to title glory.

With four Scottish Premiership matches remaining, the Bhoys retain a three-point advantage over Rangers at the summit, with an advantageous goal difference buffer of five that could prove priceless once all is said and done.

Defeating Steven Naismith’s outfit on Saturday would allow Celtic to move six clear at the top, with our city rivals not in action until the following afternoon against Kilmarnock.

The collision course with Philippe Clement’s side doesn’t end there, as we also have the small matter of a Scottish Cup final to prevail in on May 25th at Hampden, which promises to be a spectacle for several reasons.

Despite excitement and trepidation over what this season could become, Brendan Rodgers has embodied a calm presence in his recent media duties, something that can hopefully rub off on his group during the final stretch.

Last week, a nervy victory over Dundee kept our title hopes intact; however, most fans will acknowledge that an improved performance is required against Hearts, who could mathematically seal third place with a triumph of their own.

Paul Lambert on Celtic’s chances of claiming a domestic double

Former Champions League winner Paul Lambert was on talkSPORT earlier today discussing matters at his old clubs, Borussia Dortmund and Celtic, with their respective campaigns now coming towards the Business end.

Speaking in relation to the Hoops, the 54-year-old opined that Rangers have experienced a ‘fear factor’ in their last few matches that has given Celtic an advantage in the fight for the title.

Meanwhile, he also believes the Scottish Cup final could go down to the wire, citing the 50/50 fan split at Hampden as a contributing factor.

He stated: “The one at Parkhead I think is going to be pivotal to what is going to happen. Whoever wins that will win the title.

“I think Celtic are favourites, they’re in the driving seat. Rangers had a fear factor in the last few Games when they’ve not got the points, whereas, Celtic have kicked on again. Parkhead will be formidable for Rangers to get a result.

“The Scottish Cup final can go either way because of the 50/50 split. I just think Celtic at the minute have got the upper hand.”

Celtic are in a neat position as the season enters its crunch phase; however, work on the field is far from done, and there can be no room for complacency at Parkhead amid the close nature of the title race.

Nevertheless, fans will pack out Parkhead on Saturday to create a raucous atmosphere against Hearts, which will hopefully be enough to guarantee a pivotal three points.